Monday, March 4, 2019

First-Ever 2020 BMW X3 M SAV and 2020 BMW X4 M SAV Coming Soon


The first-ever 2020 BMW X3 M Sports Activity Vehicle and the first-ever 2020 BMW X4 M Sports Activity Coupe (shown above) are powered by a 473 horsepower 3.0 liter 6-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine, or an available 503 horsepower engine in the Competition versions and mated to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift modes. Both the X3 M and X4 M accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while the Competition models hit the 60 mph mark in 4.0 seconds. The top speed of all models is electronically limited to 155 mph. If the optional M Driver’s Package is specified, the limit rises to 174 mph for the X3 M and X4 M and up to 177 mph for the Competition models. Standard equipment consists of Cruise Control with braking function along with Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, while Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and distance information and the Driving Assistant (including Speed Limit Info, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Collision Prevention, Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning) can be specified as options. Driving Assistant Plus includes the Steering and lane control assistant, the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, the evasion aid and the Crossroads warning, Wrong-way warning and Front Cross Traffic Alert. There's Parking Assistant Plus for maneuvering into parking spaces. Production begins in April 2019.

Volkswagen ID. BUGGY Shown In Geneva


The Volkswagen ID. BUGGY, the next member of the ID. concept family, uses a modular electric drive matrix chassis integrating a 62kWh lithium-ion battery into the floor and a 201-horsepower electric motor in the rear to give it an expected range of 155 miles on the WLTP cycle. The concept car sprints from zero to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds to a maximum electronically controlled speed of 99 mph. While the ID. BUGGY concept car is a pure 2-seater, it can also be converted to a 2+2-seater and an additional electric motor could be added to the front axle in order to make four-wheel drive possible. The open concept car is 160.0 in long, 74.4 in wide and 57.6 in high with a 104.3 in wheelbase and 9.4 in ground clearance.

Thursday, February 14, 2019

2019 Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition Coming This Spring


The 2019 Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition SUV is a special value option package with dark 18-inch wheels with 255/60R18 all-season tires, black mesh grille, black roof rails, black door handles and outside rearview mirrors, black front and rear fascia accents, black molded overfenders and unique “Rock Creek” badging on the front doors. Interior changes include special Rock Creek Edition two-tone seating surfaces and badging, high contrast stitching on seats, door, console lid and steering wheel and premium metallic interior trim. Every Rock Creek Edition also features a standard trailer tow hitch and harness and splash guards. Both 4WD and 2WD Pathfinder models feature a 6,000-pound towing capability. It goes on sale this Spring with a package price of $995, a $1,315 savings (versus similar equipment priced separately).

Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition


The Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition will be limited to 3,000 units worldwide, including both soft-top and retractable hardtop models.

2020 Range Rover Evoque Starts At $43,465 This Spring


The next generation 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque compact luxury SUV, available in S, SE, R-Dynamic S, R-Dynamic SE and R-Dynamic HSE, with an additional First Edition model available for the first year only, will be powered by an all-new 48-volt 296 horsepower mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain available alongside a 246 horsepower Ingenium four-cylinder gasoline engine. The Range Rover Evoque is priced from $43,645 (including $995 destination/handling charge). The new Range Rover Evoque features ‘ClearSight Ground View’ technology designed to allow the driver to virtually see through the hood and under the front end of the vehicle by projecting a 180-degree view of the ground onto the vehicle’s upper touchscreen. The 2020 Range Rover Evoque will be on sale starting this Spring.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Arrives This Spring


The new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, powered by a 228 horsepower 2.0-liter TSI® engine mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available seven- speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission. “Normal,” “Sport,” “Eco,” and “Custom” driving mode selections allow drivers to customize dynamic behavior. Standard features include Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, and the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Available features include a sunroof, the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit display with unique GLI graphics, 400-watt BeatsAudio® system, Volkswagen Car-Net® connected vehicle services, SiriusXM® radio, Voice Control, a second USB port, power driver seat with memory and lumbar, ventilated seats, and remote start. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI will be available in two regular trim levels and a 35th Anniversary Edition. It is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Spring of 2019.

2020 Subaru Legacy Sedan Arrives This Fall


The all-new seventh-generation 2020 Subaru Legacy sedan, available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Limited XT and Touring XT models, is powered by a 182-horsepower 2.5-liter direct-injection BOXER engine mated to a Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission or a 260-horsepower 2.4-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine for new XT models. Standard on all trims is EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Lane Centering Function. DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, optional on Limited and standard on both XT trims, uses a dedicated camera and facial recognition software to identify signs of driver fatigue or driver distraction. If the system detects the driver is distracted or dozing off, a warning will display on both the combination meter and 11.6-inch screen to alert driver and passengers. Standard on the Touring XT, the Front View Monitor captures images within the driver’s blind spots in front of the vehicle and displays a 180-degree view on the 11.6-inch display. Also available, LED Steering Responsive Headlamps (Limited, Touring), Reverse Automatic Braking and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The 2020 Legacy will arrive at Subaru retailers this Fall, with pricing announced closer to the on-sale date.

2019 Cadillac XT5 Sport Package Coming This Spring


The 2019 Cadillac XT5 Sport package, powered by a 310 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, is a new limited-edition offered on the XT5’s Luxury and Premium Luxury trims and joins the XT4, recently introduced XT6 and Escalade in the Cadillac SUV line-up. The 2019 Cadillac XT5 Sport Edition package is $2,995 on the Luxury trim and $1,995 on the Premium Luxury trim. The Luxury trim’s starting MSRP in the U.S. is $49,490 (including destination) and it will be available for ordering in Spring.

2020 Kia Sportage Gets Refreshed This Spring


The refreshed 2020 Kia Sportage, powered by either a 181 horsepower 2.4-liter GDI or a 240 horsepower 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, offers a new S trim, standard 8-inch touchscreen for LX, S and EX variants, new headlights with available LED turn indicators, redesigned projector-beam fog lights, available LED headlights with available LED fog lights, and new front grille, bumper, air intake and skid plate. Available driver assist features include Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Start & Stop and Forward Collision Assist with pedestrian detection. The 2020 Kia Sportage is expected this Spring with limited availability.

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

All-New 2020 Silverado HD Goes On Sale This Summer


The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD, the third all-new Silverado in just 18 months, larger in virtually every measure compared to the current HD and available in Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ and High Country trim levels across 22 cab, bed, chassis and driveline configurations, is powered by a new 401 horsepower 6.6L V-8 gas with direct injection mated to a six-speed automatic transmission or a  445 horsepower Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V-8 equipped with all-new Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission boasting a max towing capability to an available 35,500 pounds. The 2020 Silverado HD offers up to 15 unique camera views, including HD Surround Vision, Bed View, a transparent trailer view, and an accessory camera. The lineup includes 2500HD and 3500HD Regular, Double Cab and Crew Cab models offered with standard length and long cargo boxes, as well as two chassis cab lengths. The all-new 2020 Silverado HD goes on sale this summer. Pricing will be released closer to on-sale date.

Monday, February 4, 2019

2019 Honda Passport On Sale Today Starting At $33,035


The all-new 2019 Honda Passport, in Sport, EX-L, Touring and Elite trims powered by a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V6 engine with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, begins arriving at Honda dealerships today starting at $33,035 (including $1,045 destination charge).

Monday, January 28, 2019

2020 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty Coming Later This Year


The all-new 2020 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty, with a longer wheelbase and taller overall height, is powered by a 445 horsepower Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel engine mated to a an all-new 10-speed Allison automatic transmission. The bigger frame, stronger propulsion and technologies are expected to deliver towing capacity well in excess of 30,000 pounds. The ProGrade Trailering system features available 15 camera views, including a transparent trailer view to virtually see through a trailer in tow. The 2020 Sierra HD goes on sale later this year in 2500HD and 3500HD dual rear wheel and single rear wheel configurations. Pricing and complete specifications will be announced later. Click here to see GMC Sierra overview interview.

Friday, January 25, 2019

BMW 745e Joins Updated 7 Series Line-Up This Spring


The updated 6th Generation BMW 7 Series Sedan adds a new 6-cylinder plug-in-hybrid 745e variant to the turbocharged 6, 8 and 12 cylinder engines in the 740i, 740i xDrive, 750i xDrive, M760i xDrive and M760Li xDrive sedans. The plug-in hybrid model has maximum output of 280 horsepower that includes a 113 horsepower electric motor and a new lithium-ion battery equipped with a hybrid-specific variant of the eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission incorporating both the electric motor and a separating clutch. With the Driving Experience Control switch set to SPORT mode, the drive duo can unleash a combined output of 389 horsepower. The new plug-in hybrid drive technology enables the BMW 745e xDrive to record a 0-60 acceleration time of 4.9 seconds. The plug-in hybrid model that will be available at the launch of the new BMW 7 Series in Spring 2019.

The new BMW M760i xDrive is powered by a 600 horsepower 6.6 liter V12 engine with a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.6 seconds to a top speed of 155 mph. The BMW 750i xDrive Sedan has a 523 horsepower 4.4-liter V8 engine taking it from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The new BMW 740i and 740i xDrive are powered by a 335 horsepower 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged direct injection straight-six engine for a 740i 0 to 60 mph time of 5.3 seconds while 740i Xdrive does it in 4.8 seconds. All equiped with an eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission. Available as an optional package in the 750i xDrive and M760i xDrive, the Rear Executive Lounge Seating appointments. The Active Driving Assistant package is standard equipment and includes Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, Lane Departure Warning Blind Spot Detection systems, Speed Limit Info system, Rear Collision Preparation and Cross Traffic Alert. The optional Driving Assistance Professional package adds Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for limited access highways, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Active Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision avoidance, Steering & Traffic Jam Assistant, Automatic Lane Change and Evasion Assistant & Cross Traffic alert.

Nissan IMs Concept


The Nissan IMs concept, with full autonomous drive capability, is powered by a 483 horsepower electric powertrain with dual front and rear electric motors and a 115-kWh battery providing an estimated range of 380 miles on a single charge. In Autonomous Drive mode, the IMs concept's headlights and rear combination light turn blue and the lighting travels continuously from front-to-rear to notify pedestrians and other drivers of its autonomous status. Nissan will launch an additional seven electric vehicles by 2022.

INFINITI QX Inspiration Concept


The INFINITI QX Inspiration concept is a midsize SUV concept with a high performance electrified all-wheel drive powertrain that previews the brand's first fully electric vehicle.

The Lexus LC Convertible Concept


Mercedes-Benz A 220 and A 220 4MATIC Start at $33,495


The Mercedes-Benz A 220 and A 220 4MATIC both feature a 188 horsepower 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged engine mated to a 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission. Standard equipment for the Mercedes-Benz A 220 and A 220 4MATIC includes a Panorama roof and the MBUX multimedia system with intelligent Voice Control, Smartphone Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a high-resolution widescreen cockpit concept with a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia display. Also available KEYLESS-GO with HANDS-FREE ACCESS for automatically opening the trunk lid with a kicking motion under the rear bumper. Arriving in U.S. dealerships in early 2019, the Mercedes-Benz A 220 Sedan will start at just $33,495 (including $995 destination and delivery charge) while the A 220 4MATIC Sedan will start from $35,495.

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

2019 Hyundai Elantra GT N Starts At $24,185


The new 2019 Hyundai Elantra GT N Line trim, the first N Line model for the United States from Hyundai, is powered by a 201 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged-GDI engine with six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed DCT with larger steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The Elantra GT N Line models available features include Smart Cruise Control with start/stop capability, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, High Beam Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and AVN 5.0 infotainment system with an eight-inch screen. The new 2019 Hyundai Elantra GT N starts at $24,185 (including $885 freight charges).

Subaru STI S209 Coming Late This Year


The limited-edition Subaru STI S209, the first-ever S-line STI product produced exclusively for the U.S. market, is powered by a reworked version of the  EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine with a larger turbine and compressor, delivering an estimated 341 horsepower and is mated to a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.  A recalibrated SI-Drive system offers three modes: Intelligent (I) for improved fuel economy and smoother power control; Sport (S) for optimized power balance between response and control; and Sport Sharp (S#) for achieving the best acceleration times. Only around 200 units of the STI S209 will be built exclusively for the U.S. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date in late 2019.

2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 Arrives This Fall


The all-new 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500, the most powerful street-legal Ford ever, is powered by a supercharged 700-plus horsepower 5.2-liter V8 aluminum alloy engine built by hand mated to a TREMEC® 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is capable of shifts in under 100 milliseconds. The all-new 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 has next-generation active MagneRide™ suspension, a new electronic power steering unit and lighter-weight coil springs front and rear.  An available Handling Package includes adjustable strut top mounts and spoiler with Gurney flap. Also, an available Carbon Fiber Track Package, with the rear seat is deleted to reduce weight, features exposed 20-inch carbon fiber wheels with 0.5-inch-wider rear wheels (11.5-inch), custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, adjustable exposed carbon fiber GT4 track wing and splitter wickers with integrated dive plane. The all-new 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 joins the Shelby GT350 in the sixth-generation Mustang line-up when it arrives this Fall.

2020 Lexus RC F Coupe Coming In The 2nd Quarter


The 2020 Lexus RC F Coupe, is refreshed with improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, a retuned suspension, new styling and the addition of an all-new, limited production Track Edition model (above). The RC F continues to be powered by a 472 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a higher final drive ratio to improve off-the-line response. Both the 2020 Lexus RC F and the RC F Track Edition will start production in the second quarter of 2019.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

2020 Toyota Supra Starts At $50,830 This Summer


2020 Toyota Supra, returning after 20 years, will be available in 3.0 and 3.0 Premium trims and powered by a 335 horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and have a starting price of $50,830 (including the $930 delivery, processing, and handling fee). Both grades will have features including adaptive suspension, an active rear differential and launch control. The initial 1,500 production Supras for the U.S. will be Launch Edition models starting at $56,180 uniquely numbered and with distinctive features. Toyota dealers will be handling all orders and the Launch Edition models go on sale in Summer 2019.

2020 Kia Telluride 3-Row SUV Coming This Year


2020 Kia Telluride 8-seat mid-size SUV, the largest Kia ever available in LX, EX, S and SX trims with a choice of front-wheel or optional all-wheel drive, is powered by a 291 horsepower 3.8-liter GDI V6 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with Smart, Eco, Sport and Comfort drive modes. “Eco” and “Smart” modes deliver 100 percent power to the front wheels. “Comfort” and “Snow” modes deliver 80 percent power to the front wheels and 20 percent to rear. Sport mode splits the power 65-35 percent between front and back. “Lock” mode delivers power evenly to all four wheels. Standard towing rated up to 5,000 pounds. Features include Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Head-Up Display, Driver Talk, Quiet Mode and Rear Occupant Alert. Telluride will be assembled at Kia’s manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia and will go on sale this year.

2020 Cadillac XT6 Available To Order This Spring


The 2020 Cadillac XT6 three-row crossover, with a standard power-folding third-row seat, is powered by a 310 horsepower 3.6L DOHC V-6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission featuring next-generation Electronic Precision Shift offering up to four selectable driving modes and Active Fuel Management technology that enables V-4 operation when V-6 power. AWD is available on Premium Luxury and standard on XT6 Sport. The XT6 features include Night Vision, HD Surround Vision Camera, Illuminated Cadillac Crest hands-free liftgate, Keyless Open and Adaptive Remote Start, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Front and Rear Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. The 2020 XT6 will be manufactured in Spring Hill, Tennessee, and available for ordering this Spring.

2020 Volkswagen Passat Coming This Summer


The new 2020 Volkswagen Passat, completely restyled retaining the underpinnings of the previous model and available in four regular trim levels, is powered by a 174 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®. Every Passat includes standard Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, now with Pedestrian Monitoring, as well as Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert. Available driver-assistance features include: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist and Parking Steering Assistant including Park Distance Control. In addition, Passat offers a combination of both passive and active safety systems including the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. The 2020 Volkswagen Passat, comes with 6-years/72,000-mile (whichever occurs first) bumper-to-bumper warranty is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Summer of 2019.

2020 Ford Explorer Coming This Summer


The all-new 2020 Ford Explorer comes in standard, XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, ST and Platinum trim levels, offers intelligent four-wheel drive and an available new Terrain Management System™ that features seven drive modes and is powered by a 300 horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine with all-new 10-speed transmission that comes standard on base, XLT and Limited models, and a 365 horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that powers Explorer Platinum. 

Explorer ST (pictured above) is powered by a 400 horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost® engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with selectable traction control. Available upgrades include an ST Street Pack and an ST Track Pack. The all-new Explorer Hybrid, which features a 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain with an all-new 10-speed modular hybrid transmission, is projected to produce a combined system 318 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of more than 500 miles between gas station fill-ups for the rear-wheel-drive model.

The all-new 2020 Ford Explorer offers more space and technology, including available 10.1-inch portrait-mounted touch screen with full-screen maps, traffic-sensing Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist including Evasive Steering Assist to help avoid a collision, available Reverse Brake Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, which handles all steering, shifting, brake and accelerator controls during a parking maneuver with a touch of a button, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which includes Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Dynamic Brake Support, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, and Rearview camera with built-in lens cleaner. Vehicles equipped with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost can tow up to 5,600 pounds and new models outfitted with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost and Class III Trailer Tow Package can tow up to 5,300 pounds.The all-new Explorer is manufactured at Chicago Assembly Plant and due in showrooms this Summer.

Friday, January 4, 2019

Another Reuss Rolls In As President of General Motors


Mark Reuss (left) was just named president of General Motors following a long career at GM that began as a student intern in 1983. Most recently, from June 2018, Reuss was executive vice president and president, Cadillac and global portfolio planning and prior to that was executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain from 2013-2018. Before that, starting in 2009, Reuss was president of General Motors North America. Reuss was born and raised in Detroit and holds a bachelor’s of engineering degree from Vanderbilt University and a master’s of business administration from Duke University. In 2011, Reuss, as President of GM North America, discussed a changing mindset at General Motors (click hear to see his interview).



Richard Saxton with Lloyd Reuss


His 82 year old father, Lloyd Reuss was President of General Motors Corporation from 1990 until his retirement in January 1993. A mechanical engineering grad from the University of Missouri, the older Reuss joined GM in 1959 and was checking out vehicles at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit with Richard Saxton (right).

Monday, December 31, 2018

2018: Automotive Visionary Sergio Marchionne Passed Away

Richard Saxton with Sergio Marchionne

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, chairman and CEO of FCA US LLC, the chairman and CEO of Ferrari, and the chairman of Maserati, Italian-Canadian lawyer and businessman, who turned around Fiat and Chrysler, was a big loss for the auto industry when he passed away on July 25, 2018, at the age 66, due to complications from shoulder surgery. Easy to talk to and a friend who I admired.

ArticlesGlobal and Mail, Financial Times, Reuters.

Photo taken Jan. 11, 2010 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.


Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD


The Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD chassis cab trucks, the first-ever medium-duty Silverado trucks, are in production and on their way to dealerships.

2019 Nissan Murano and Maxima Prices


The 2019 Nissan Murano, now on sale in available in S, SV, SL and Platinum trims and equipped with a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 connected to an advanced Xtronic transmission, is available in front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, with a starting MSRP of $32,315 (including $1,045 destination and handling charge) for the Murano S front-wheel drive model.


The 2019 Nissan Maxima, with a mid-cycle freshening for its S, SV, SL, SR and Platinum trims levels, is powered by a 300-horsepower 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine and Xtronic transmission and is on sale now starting at $34,845 (including $895 destination and handling charge).

2019 Hyundai Kona Electric Crossover Starts Under $30,000 With Tax Credit


The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric crossover, with a 258-mile estimated range, has a starting price of $36,450, for an effective net price of $28,950 ($29,995 including delivery), with the electric vehicle tax credit of $7,500 factored in. Customers may receive the available federal tax credit of up to $7,500, dependent on individual tax circumstances. Kona Electric models will be produced in Ulsan, Korea and will be available in the beginning of 2019, with initial availability in California and subsequently in the ZEV-focused states in the western and northeastern regions of the U.S. market.

2019 Porsche Macan S Starts At $59,650 This Summer



The 2019 Porsche Macan S is refreshed with several chassis revisions, a continuous LED light bar at the rear, and the new Porsche Communication Management system with a 10.9-inch touchscreen and a new more powerful 348 horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with a zero to 60 mph time of 5.1 seconds or 4.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package to a top track speed of 157 mph. LED headlights are now included as standard, while Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus is optional while a new brake pedal weighs around 300 g less than the previous steel part and connects to the brake master cylinder via a shortened lever arm for improved brake responsiveness and the 2019 model has larger front brake discs. With 100 more horsepower and costing almost $10,000 more than the base Macan, the new 2019 Macan S has a base MSRP of $59,650 (including a $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fee) and is available for order now and is expected to reach U.S. dealers in summer 2019.

Monday, December 24, 2018

2019 Nissan GT-R Starts At $101,685


The 2019 Nissan GT-R Pure, Premium and Track Edition grades are equipped with a 565-horsepower 3.8-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine mated to a dual-clutch sequential 6-speed transmission, electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and the GT-R NISMO is rated at 600 horsepower. The 2019 GT-R Pure model, the most affordable of the four available GT-R trim levels, remains unchanged from 2018 with a a starting MSRP of $101,685 (including $1,695 destination and handling charge).


The Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign, the ultimate 710 horsepower GT-R will have a 50-vehicle limited run with orders being taken now at GT-R50.nissan and deliveries to begin in 2019 continuing through 2020. Price tag is about $1,125,270.

Audi e-tron GT Concept Coming In Early 2021


The electric powered Audi e-tron GT Concept, a four-door coupe, will make its film debut in Marvel Studios’ Avengers 4, set to be released in theaters summer 2019 with the volume-production counterpart set to follow in approximately two years following the Audi e-tron SUV and the Audi e-tron Sportback slated for 2019. A 590 horsepower system feeding separate synchronous electric motors in the front and rear axles. The vehicle should accelerate from 0 to 62.1 mph in around 3.5 seconds before going on to 124.3 mph in just over 12 seconds to a regulated top speed 149.1 mph to maximize the range which is expected to be 248.5 miles (determined according to the new WLTP standard). Fitted with an 800-volt system reduces charging times to around 20 minutes to recharge the battery to 80 percent of its capacity, providing a range of 198.8 miles (WLTP). The project will be developed into volume-production models by the end of 2020. Initial deliveries will be made to customers in early 2021.

Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport, Limited Production of 200


The new Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport, with only 200 to made, is powered by a 700 horsepower 6-cylinder aluminium twin-turbocharged rear-mounted boxer engine mated to a 7-speed PDK transmission, and will have an MSRP base price of $478,000 (excluding tax, shipping, and import fees). All interested customers should email GT2RSCS@porschemotorsport.com to register interest. Customers can expect to begin to receive their vehicles beginning in May 2019.

2019 Jaguar I-PACE Electric SUV Starts At $70,495


The new all-electric 2019 Jaguar I-PACE SUV with a 90kWh battery powering a pair of electric motors delivers an EPA Estimated range of up to 234 miles and 0-60mph acceleration of 4.5 seconds. A 0-80 percent charge is achieveable in approximately 40 minutes using a 100kW public fast charger, or just over 10 hours using a 230V/32amp charger. The Jaguar I-PACE features standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™7,8. Drivers can interact with key mobile apps through the vehicle’s central touchscreen in a manner similar to a smartphone, and certain functions can also be controlled via Voice Control. The Jaguar I-PACE, on sale now, is priced from $70,495 (including $995 destination and handling charge) in S, SE and HSE trim levels, with an additional First Edition model available for the first year only and each featuring all-wheel drive, four-corner air suspension, panoramic glass roof, and the new Jaguar InControl® Touch Pro Duo™ infotainment system standard.

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

2018 LA Auto Show Video: Rivian Founder/CEO RJ Scaringe



A surprising vehicle manufacturer appearance at the 2018 LA Auto Show was Rivian, an electric SUV and pickup truck startup that's two years away from offering trucks in the $60,000 price range after rebates. Founder/CEO RJ Scaringe discusses his creation.

Click here to watch the interview.

2018 LA Auto Show Video: Joy Falotico On Lincoln Aviator


Joy Falotico, Group Vice President of Lincoln and Chief Marketing Officer for Ford introduces the new 2020 Lincoln Aviator luxury SUV with a hybrid powertrain option at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Click here to watch interview.

Monday, December 10, 2018

2018 LA Auto Show Video: Kia's Paul Fisher On The 2020 Soul


Paul Fisher, Long Range Strategy and Product Planning Manager at Kia Motors America, discusses three new variants of the 2020 Kia Soul which were introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show and will go on sale in the first half of next year.

The new Soul will offer a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or Intelligent Variable Transmission or a 201 horsepower 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged I-4 GDI engine matched with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Soul is available in LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, EX, “EX Designer Collection” trim levels. The all-electric, battery-powered 2020 Soul EV has 201 horsepower with a new state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium ion polymer 64 kWh battery. Click here to view interview.

2018 LA Auto Show Video: Porsche Cars NA CEO Klaus Zellmer



Porsche Cars North America President and CEO Klaus Zellmer discusses the new Porsche 911, Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, autonomous vehicles and the electric Taycan at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Please click here to watch the interview.

All-New Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback Coming Early Next Year



The all-new Mazda3, fully redesigned, will be rolled out to global markets starting from North America in early 2019. Hatchback model shown above.


Sunday, December 9, 2018

2018 LA Auto Show Video: Erwin Raphael, Genesis Motor America


Erwin Raphael, General Manager, Genesis Motor America, discusses the 2019 Genesis G70 sedan and its recent awards:
2019 MotorTrend Car of the Year,
2019 Car and Driver 10Best Award,
2019 North American Car of the Year top-three finalist,
“Best Deluxe Car” by the Hispanic Motor Press.

Click here to watch interview.

Friday, November 30, 2018

2020 Lincoln Aviator Coming Soon


The all-new 2020 Lincoln Aviator seven passenger three row SUV, slotted between the Nautilus and Navigator in the SUV Lincoln line-up, is powered by either a standard twin-turbocharged 400 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission or in the Aviator Grand Touring, a twin-turbocharged engine and electrified technology targeted to deliver 450 horsepower. All Lincoln vehicles come standard with a suite of driver-assist features known as Lincoln Co-Pilot360™ including Traffic Jam Assist, Evasive Steer Assist, Reverse Brake Assist and Active Park Assist Plus. Lincoln’s Phone As A Key technology, debuting in the all-new Aviator, is activated through the Lincoln Way™ app allowing owners to lock and unlock, open the liftgate and, most importantly, start and drive the vehicle, all without a traditional key. Phone As A Key offers additional amenities. Drivers can recall individual preferences for Phone As A Key offers preferences for adjusting seat, mirror and steering column positions. Comfort and entertainment settings can be activated through the feature as well. Should a phone battery go dead, a passcode can be entered on the standard exterior keypad to gain entry then a backup code can be entered on the center touch screen to start and drive the vehicle. If a phone is lost or stolen, Phone As A Key can be easily deleted.

Eighth Generation Porsche 911 Arrives In The Summer


Porsche 911, 8th generation sports car is 1.8 inches wider and brings back a front luggage compartment lid in front of the windshield. The 911 S models are powered by a 443 horsepower twin-turbocharged flat-six engines mated to a new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission with a manual transmission will be available at a later date. The top track speeds are now 191 mph (Carrera S) and 190 mph for the Carrera 4S all-wheel-drive version. Additional highlights include the standard Porsche Wet Mode to make driving on wet roads even safer, optional Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera, as well as comprehensive connectivity that uses swarm data when Porsche Connect Plus is activated. The 2020 911 Carrera S has a base price of $114,250 ($1,095 including the delivery, processing and handling fee) while the 2020 911 Carrera 4S will start at $121,695 and can be ordered now and are expected to reach U.S. dealers in Summer 2019.

2020 Hyundai Palisade 8 Passenger SUV Arrives In The Summer


The all-new 2020 Hyundai Palisade offers three-row seating for up to eight and power comes from a 291 horsepower Atkinson-cycle 3.8-liter V6, dual CVVT, direct-injected engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a multi-plate torque converter and offers both two-wheel and HTRAC® four-wheel-drive configurations. Palisade also offers a Blind View Monitor that complements the standard Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, which provides body-side views whenever the turn signal is activated. The audio and navigation display is a generous 10.25 inch touchscreen in widescreen format, coupled with a 12.3-inch fully-digital TFT center instrument cluster offering various view modes and differentiated drive mode illumination. Palisade’s available Heads-Up Display projects a virtual image onto the windshield with information such as speed, Smart Cruise Control status, navigation, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, speed limits, Lane Following Assist and audio system data.The Palisade will be produced in Ulsan, Korea and will be available at dealerships across the U.S. in the summer of 2019.

2020 Jeep® Gladiator On Sale In 2nd Quarter 2019


The all-new 2020 Jeep® Gladiator features a five-foot steel bed, is available in Sport, Sport S, Overland and Rubicon trims and is powered by a 285 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine at launch with a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine being offered in 2020. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Gladiator models equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, and an eight-speed automatic transmission is optional.A 7.0- or an available 8.4-inch touchscreen houses the fourth-generation Uconnect system.  The Gladiator has up to 7,650 pounds of towing capacity and up to 1,600 pounds of payload capacity. The Mopar brand will offer more than 200 new or redesigned Jeep Performance Parts and accessories for owners to personalize the all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator at launch. Built in Toledo, Ohio, the all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator arrives in showrooms in the second quarter of 2019.